By Gabriela Baron
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday, Nov. 24, said that it respects the decision of the Regional Trial Court of Caloocan following its conviction against a cop for torturing and planting evidence on two teenagers.
The Caloocal Regional Trial Court found Police Officer 1 Jefrey Perez guilty beyond reasonable doubt for the torture and planting of evidence on two teenagers Carl Arnaiz and Reynaldo “Kulot” de Guzman during the height of war on drugs.
Perez was also sentenced to reclusion perpetua or up to 40 years of imprisonment and was ordered to pay the heirs of Arnaiz and De Guzman moral damages amounting to P1 million and exemplary damages amounting to P1 million or a total of P2 million for each of the victim’s heirs.
PNP said the decision was a result of a “fair full blown trial.”
“[We] believe that the accused was given his day in court to present his side. Nevertheless, any acts committed by erring personnel does not reflect the views of the whole PNP organization. The PNP has always maintained its stance to uphold the rule of law in all its undertakings,” PNP Chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said in a statement.
“At present, the PNP ought to shift its strategy on anti-crime and illegal drug campaign. We aim to utilize a more holistic approach in combating crimes which would involve the church and the community through our Kasimbayan program,” Azurin added.
Azurin, however, said that PNP “cannot promise a zero casualty” in its operations as safety of its personnel “is also a priority.”
“They need to defend themselves when attacked or the life of innocent civilian are on the line but with the strict observance of human rights at all times,” he added.
“We are keen on observing different approaches on our anti-crime campaign to minimize, if not avoid, armed confrontations in our police operations.”
Perez was dismissed from the service on Oct. 4, 2018. -ag
